IELTS vs OET: Which English Language Test Should You Take?

IELTS and OET stand out as the leading English proficiency tests globally.

IELTS, a widely adopted system, assesses the English proficiency of non-native speakers through two versions: Academic and General Training.

The Academic version suits those aiming to study in an English-speaking environment, while the General Training version is for those seeking work or migration.

OET, on the other hand, is tailored for healthcare professionals seeking to practice in English-speaking environments. It offers versions for nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, physiotherapy, occupational therapy, radiography, and veterinary science.

Both tests feature multiple sections, with IELTS encompassing Listening, Reading, Writing, and Speaking, taking approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. Meanwhile, OET includes tailored sub-tests for the healthcare profession.

The key distinction lies in the content of the Reading and Listening sub-tests. OET incorporates healthcare-related texts, such as point-of-care scenarios, while IELTS draws from diverse academic topics, ranging from recycling to astronomy.

Scoring for both tests follows a band score system ranging from 0 to 9, where 9 is the highest. A score of 7 is generally deemed good, although specific institutions may require higher scores.

Professions and Relevance

IELTS and OET are designed for medical professionals, including nurses, doctors, dentists, pharmacists, occupational therapists, optometrists, podiatrists, vets, speech pathologists, dieticians, physiotherapists, radiographers, and other healthcare professionals.

The IELTS test is more general and suitable for medical professionals who want to work or study in an English-speaking country. It covers many topics and is not specific to any particular medical profession.

On the other hand, the OET test is crafted for healthcare professionals aiming to work or study in an English-speaking healthcare setting.

It focuses on medical topics, customizing speaking and writing tasks for each profession—nurses get nursing tasks, and dentists receive dentistry tasks.

Medical institutions and employers widely accept both tests, but it’s crucial to check the preference of the specific institution before deciding which one to take.

Test Components

IELTS and OET consist of four modules: reading, listening, writing, and speaking. However, the test components differ in terms of content and difficulty level.

Reading

The reading sub-test in IELTS uses long-form texts from various academic topics covering everything from recycling to astronomy. On the other hand, OET utilizes healthcare-related texts such as point-of-care scenarios and workplace communications.

Listening

The listening sub-test in both IELTS and OET assesses the ability to understand spoken English in academic and healthcare settings.

In IELTS, the audio recordings feature a range of accents and dialects, while in OET, the recordings are specific to healthcare scenarios.

Writing

While sitting OET, test-takers must write a letter to another healthcare professional based on case notes. In contrast, IELTS offers two writing tasks: 150-word- and 250-word essays.

The writing sub-test in both IELTS and OET evaluates the test-takers ability to write in English using appropriate vocabulary, grammar, and structure.

Speaking

In the speaking sub-test, both IELTS and OET assess the test-taker’s ability to communicate effectively in English. However, the content of the speaking test differs significantly.

In IELTS, the test-taker is required to speak on a range of general topics, while in OET, the speaking test involves role plays and scenarios specific to healthcare settings.

Scoring and Grading

IELTS and OET assess English proficiency through scoring systems. IELTS employs a 9-band scale, ranging from 0 (non-user) to 9 (expert user), while OET uses grades A to E, with A being the highest and E the lowest.

To succeed in IELTS, a test taker needs a minimum score of 6 in each of the four sections: listening, reading, writing, and speaking. However, institution-specific score requirements may apply. In contrast, OET mandates a minimum grade of C+ in each section for passing.

OET calculates the graded score by averaging the scores of the four sections, rounding to the nearest half-mark. For instance, if a test taker scores 350 out of 400, their graded score becomes 87.5, rounded to 88.

IELTS and OET scores remain valid for two years; additional score reports can be obtained for a fee.

IELTS scores can be converted to the Common European Framework of Reference (CEFR) levels, an internationally recognized language proficiency standard. However, OET scores aren’t directly comparable to CEFR levels.

Geographical Acceptance

One of the most important factors when choosing between IELTS and OET is the geographical acceptance of the tests.

Both tests are widely accepted in English-speaking countries, but their acceptance in certain regions varies.

IELTS Acceptance

IELTS, recognized by 11,500+ global organizations such as universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies, is widely accepted in the UK, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Ireland, Ukraine, Namibia, and Dubai.

In the UK, IELTS is accepted by the General Medical Council (GMC) for registration purposes. It is also accepted by the Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC) and the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).

In Australia, IELTS is accepted by the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (AHPRA) for registration purposes. The Department of Home Affairs also accepts it for visa applications.

In New Zealand, IELTS is accepted by the Medical Council of New Zealand for registration purposes. Immigration New Zealand also accepts it for visa applications.

OET Acceptance

OET is specifically designed for healthcare professionals and is accepted by healthcare authorities and immigration authorities in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand. It is also accepted in Singapore and Dubai.

In the UK, OET is accepted by the GMC, NMC, and HCPC for registration purposes.

In Australia, AHPRA accepts OET for registration purposes, and the Department of Home Affairs also accepts it for visa applications.

In New Zealand, OET is accepted by the Medical Council of New Zealand for registration purposes and by Immigration New Zealand for visa applications.

Before applying, review the unique criteria set by the organization or institution. Acceptance standards can differ based on the profession and English proficiency level needed.

Preparation for the Tests

IELTS and OET require test takers to have a good command of the English language. Therefore, it is essential to prepare thoroughly before taking either test.

Test takers can prepare for IELTS by practicing their English language skills, including reading, writing, listening, and speaking. They can use various resources such as textbooks, online courses, and language learning apps.

IELTS also offers official practice materials that can be purchased online or in bookstores.

On the other hand, OET is specifically designed for healthcare professionals. Therefore, test takers can prepare by familiarizing themselves with the language used in their profession.

They can practice their skills by reading medical journals, attending workshops, and participating in role-playing exercises. OET also offers official practice materials tailored to specific professions, such as nursing and medicine.

Regarding the level of English required, both tests have similar language requirements. However, OET may suit those more comfortable with medical terminology. At the same time, IELTS may be a better fit for those looking for a more general English language test.

Regulatory Bodies and Universities

Both IELTS and OET are recognized by various regulatory bodies and universities worldwide. The following regulatory bodies and universities recognize IELTS and OET:

• Nursing and Midwifery Council (NMC): The NMC recognizes both IELTS and OET for nurses and midwives who wish to register and work in the UK.
• General Medical Council (GMC): The GMC recognizes IELTS and OET for doctors who wish to register and work in the UK.
• Universities: Universities in the UK and other countries recognize IELTS and OET as proof of English language proficiency for admission to academic programs.

It’s important to note that different regulatory bodies and universities may have additional minimum score requirements for either test. Therefore, it’s recommended to check the specific requirements of the regulatory body or university before taking either test.

The British Council administers IELTS and has partnerships with over 10,000 organizations worldwide, including universities, employers, immigration authorities, and professional bodies. This means that IELTS is widely recognized and accepted by various entities worldwide.

In contrast, OET is primarily recognized by healthcare regulatory bodies in the UK, Ireland, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Dubai, Ukraine, and Namibia. However, it is also gaining recognition in other countries.

Communication in a Healthcare Setting

Effective communication is essential in healthcare to ensure patient safety and positive outcomes. IELTS and OET assess a candidate’s ability to communicate in English.

Still, OET is tailored specifically for healthcare professionals, encompassing various medical fields such as nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health practitioners.

In a healthcare setting, communication is not just about language proficiency but also about context. Healthcare professionals must communicate effectively with patients, colleagues, and other providers to provide quality care.

OET recognizes this and utilizes healthcare-related texts such as point-of-care scenarios and workplace communications to assess a candidate’s ability to communicate in real-life situations.

On the other hand, IELTS uses long-form texts from various academic topics covering everything from recycling to astronomy. While this may assess a candidate’s overall language proficiency, it may not accurately reflect their ability to communicate effectively in a healthcare setting.

In addition to language proficiency and context, effective communication in a healthcare setting also involves nonverbal communication, active listening, and cultural sensitivity.

OET assesses these skills through its speaking and writing sub-tests, which require candidates to demonstrate their ability to empathize with patients, provide clear instructions, and work collaboratively with colleagues.

Cost and Availability

Cost and availability are essential when considering which English proficiency test to take. The fees for the IELTS and OET exams differ significantly. As of January 2022, the IELTS exam fee ranges from USD 215 to USD 310, depending on the location, while the OET exam fee is USD 455.

It is important to note that fees may vary depending on the country, so it is best to check the official IELTS and OET websites for the most up-to-date information.

Availability is another factor to consider. Both IELTS and OET are widely available in many countries. IELTS is administered by the British Council, IDP Education, and Cambridge Assessment English, while OET is administered by OET (Occupational English Test). Both tests can be taken at various test centers worldwide, making them accessible to many people.

It is important to note that many companies and institutions, including universities, immigration authorities, and employers worldwide, accept the IELTS test.

OET, on the other hand, is specifically designed for healthcare professionals and is accepted by healthcare authorities and immigration authorities in the UK, Australia, and New Zealand.

Regarding cost and availability, IELTS is the more affordable option, while both tests are widely available. However, it is important to consider the specific requirements of the institution or organization that requires the test and choose the most appropriate for the individual’s needs.

Immigration and English Proficiency Tests

Proficiency in English is a key requirement for those seeking to immigrate to English-speaking countries. Immigration authorities in these nations mandate evidence of English language skills to ensure effective communication in the new environment.

Two widely recognized tests for English language proficiency in immigration are the IELTS and the Occupational English Test (OET).

IELTS is a comprehensive test that assesses listening, reading, writing, and speaking skills for individuals planning to study, work, or migrate to English-speaking countries. Immigration authorities and educational institutions recognize it in numerous countries, and it is a popular choice.

OET, tailored for healthcare professionals, gauges language proficiency in medical fields like nursing, medicine, dentistry, pharmacy, and allied health practitioners. It is a specialized option for healthcare workers seeking to work or migrating to English-speaking countries.

While immigration authorities generally accept both IELTS and OET, the test selection depends on the purpose of immigration and specific requirements set by the authorities. Certain countries may specify a particular test for specific professions or visa categories.

Prospective immigrants should thoroughly research their desired destination’s English language proficiency requirements before taking the test. Additionally, ensuring that the immigration authorities of that country recognize the chosen test is crucial for a smooth application process.